James Frank Chesson

James F. Chesson, lovingly known as “Pappy”, 69, gained his wings November 22, 2021 in Deer Park, Texas. James was born in Orange, Texas on February 6. 1952 to parents James and Gloria (Garza) Chesson.

Pappy had many talents throughout his life. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1970 and honorably discharged in 1972 and was a soldier part of the 4-101st Pathfinders; a specialized group of soldiers dropped into place in order to set up and operate supply operations. James was also a Communications specialist in the Army as well as a Vietnam Veteran. He is a retiree Conductor and Brakeman of the Southern Pacific Railroad after 16 years of service. After retirement, Pappy owned and operated Bayshore Construction Company as well as worked as a bounty hunter for James Bond Bail Bonds. Pappy was also a Licensed Captain with the U.S. Coast Guard.

In his free time, Pappy enjoyed fishing and hunting, playing the guitar while singing and collecting scrap. Ever the handyman, Pappy could be counted on to build anything asked of his or repair what needed to be fixed. He was someone you could depend on. Above all, James loved his family—spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and dogs meant everything to him. His affection and heart of gold will be truly missed.

James is preceded in death by his parents James and Gloria Chesson, two brothers Frank Chesson and Mark Chesson, two sisters Shyra Gilbreath and Yvonne Brasher and his four-legged best friend Beaux, his Labrador Retriever.

Left to keep Pappy’s memory alive are his wife of 33 years, Joyce Chesson, his children Angela (Randy) Carter, James (Mindy) Chesson, C.J. Edworthy and Sonya Chesson; eight grandchildren Reanna Carter, KerriAnn (Truceton) Prell, Savannah (William) Wilkinson, Trevor Edworthy, Ashlyn Carter, Allyson Edworthy, Greyson Chesson, and Madalynn Davis; six grandchildren Kolby O,Briant, Tryston O’Briant, Joshua Ucci, Nickolaus Ucci, Kathryn Ucci, and Ashlynn Eiler ; nine great-grandchildren Daisy Wilkinson, Jami Garza, Lincoln Waltmon, Truceton Prell, Wyatt Wilkinson, Greighlynn Prell, Easton Southerland, Karson O’Briant, and Oliver O’ Briant. Also surviving are his sisters Jackie (Steve) Chesson and Linda Eckland as well as many nieces, nephews and loving extended family.

Visitation will be held Saturday, December 11, 2021 at Forest Park East Funeral Home from Noon until 2:00 PM with Funeral Services beginning at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow in Forest Park East Cemetery.

Top of the World, Pappy!